| Author: | Ngozi E. Bolin, Esq. |
| Publisher: | Pantraxxa LLC |
| Published: | October 10, 2026 |
| Length: | 722 pages |
| Formats: | Paperback, Kindle |
| ISBN: | 979-8950322150 |
The Pro Se Litigant Handbook: Representing Yourself in New York and California
About this book
The Pro Se Litigant Handbook is a step-by-step guide by attorney Ngozi E. Bolin for people who represent themselves in basic civil and small-claims cases in New York and California. It covers the work a self-represented party has to do, from deciding whether a dispute supports a legal claim through trial, judgment and collecting what the court awards.
Representing Yourself in New York and California
A civil case is not won because the grievance is serious. To succeed, a self-represented litigant has to identify a claim or defense the law recognizes, file in the right court, meet every deadline, present admissible evidence and ask for relief the court can actually grant.
The Pro Se Litigant Handbook walks through those requirements in order, separates general principles from New York and California practice, and reminds readers to check current statutes, court rules, official forms and local procedures before filing or appearing. Sixteen appendices add decision guides, worksheets, sample documents, trial-preparation materials and official self-help resources.
What the book covers
- Deciding whether a dispute supports a viable claim or defense
- Choosing the proper parties, jurisdiction, venue and court
- Calculating limitation periods and procedural deadlines
- Preparing claims, complaints, answers, demand letters, motions and oppositions
- Filing and service requirements
- Organizing documents, witnesses, damages and exhibits
- Discovery and subpoenas
- Evidence, objections, direct and cross-examination and closing argument
- Settlement, judgment, appeal, collection and closing the case
Who it is for
- People representing themselves in a civil or small-claims case in New York or California
- Anyone deciding whether to file a claim or how to respond to one
- Self-represented parties who want a structured reference from first assessment through enforcement
Related books
- Law in Real Life: Common Legal Questions Americans Ask – Answered
- Consumer Law and Protection in America: Your Federal, New York, and California Rights in the Digital Age
- All 15 Law Made Simple books
Frequently Asked Questions
What does The Pro Se Litigant Handbook cover?
It covers the full path of a basic civil or small-claims case in New York and California: assessing the claim, choosing the court, deadlines, drafting and filing papers, service, discovery, evidence and trial, settlement, judgment, appeal and enforcement.
Who is the book written for?
It is written for people who represent themselves (pro se) in civil and small-claims matters in New York and California.
Does the book include forms and worksheets?
Yes. Sixteen appendices provide decision guides, worksheets, sample documents, trial-preparation materials and official self-help resources.
Where can I buy The Pro Se Litigant Handbook?
It is available on Amazon in paperback and Kindle editions.
Is the book a substitute for legal advice?
No. The book is for informational and educational purposes. For advice about your own case, you can book a flat-fee consultation with Ms. Bolin.
About the author
Ngozi E. Bolin, Esq. has been admitted to practice in New York since 1991 and California since 2013, with three decades of experience in litigation and jury and bench trials. She is the author of the Law Made Simple series of plain-English legal guides.
Need advice on your own situation? Book a flat-fee consultation with Ms. Bolin.
The book and this page are general information, not legal advice for your specific situation.